Authored by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Upon relocating to London as an international student, you’ll swiftly realize how costs can mount up, from accommodation and food to transportation and educational fees. Furthermore, the professional environment appears notably different, showcasing alternative approaches to work, communication, and the concept of creativity in contrast to your home country.
Part-time work served as a bridge between these realms for me, aiding in financial management while gaining insights into the UK market, particularly from a marketing and customer experience viewpoint. My initial and favorite position was as a MORA Content Creator within Imperial’s central marketing division. Being compensated to develop content for a prestigious university felt surreal and positively influenced my year.
Becoming a MORA Content Creator
Collaborating with the MORA team to craft content for over 700,000 individuals across Imperial’s social media platforms was a dream come true. It involved narrative-building and sharing the student journey, mastering institutional communication, and grasping the tone and authenticity needed to connect with varied audiences.
This position provided unexpected chances, like interviewing notable personalities such as Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty. None of these opportunities would have materialized without accepting that initial offer. The MORA team is supportive, nurturing, and creates an innovative environment to explore ideas. If you have a passion for storytelling and wish to partake in captivating content initiatives, this is among the finest part-time positions at Imperial.
Finding part-time opportunities
There are numerous methods to discover part-time employment while studying at Imperial. I found my positions through Imperial’s job portals on JobsLive, LinkedIn, and career events during Welcome Week. Customize your CV for each application and convey enthusiasm. Imperial’s Careers Service can assist with your CV, interview preparation, and job hunting. Most employers prioritize reliability, initiative, and cordiality over mere experience.
Balancing work and study
Striking a balance between work and academic commitments necessitates careful planning. I arranged shifts during lighter weeks in my class schedule. Your academic program remains the focal point, but a strategically chosen part-time job can enhance your studies. My marketing classes felt more relevant when applied in real-world contexts.
Exploring different part-time jobs
Throughout my Master’s, I experimented with different roles such as waiter, event coordinator, barista, and bartender. Each position imparted distinct lessons. Work in hospitality taught genuine customer service, perseverance, teamwork, and keeping composure under duress. These skills have remained with me long after leaving the café environment.
Financial independence and visa rules
From a financial standpoint, part-time jobs were essential. I managed to pay for rent, transportation, and living costs, and even set aside some savings. As an international student, I was permitted to work up to 20 hours weekly during term time and full-time during holidays, achieving a balance between income and rest.
Complying with visa regulations is crucial, as exceeding work hours can jeopardize your visa status. Imperial offers solid guidance, so always verify the terms before accepting any job offer.
Final thoughts
Considering my part-time experience at Imperial, it encompassed more than just earning an income. It fostered confidence, instilled professionalism within a new culture, and connected me with a diverse array of individuals. Every role, whether serving coffee or producing digital marketing campaigns, imparts valuable lessons for the future.
If you’re embarking on your Master’s and contemplating how to manage finances while obtaining practical experience, begin exploring part-time positions early. A simple “yes” today may lead to opportunities beyond your expectations.
For further insights into my journey, read my Imperial story.